Maxus T60 Arrives In PH Shores, To Be Launched In Q1 2020

Maxus Philippines is set to introduce its competitor in the highly-contested pick-up truck segment with the T60. As we speak right now, the Maxus T60 pick-up trucks are now on Philippine shores and are being prepared for a local launch in Q1 2020.

The Maxus T60 is the first pick-up ever built by SAIC Motor to be destined for global markets. It is also the first Chinese-manufactured pick-up to score a full five-star rating at the Australian New Car Assesment Program (ANCAP). Combined with its more affordable pricing compared to established players such as the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, just to name a few, the Maxus T60 turned out to be a very popular choice for pick-up buyers in the land down under.

As of this moment, Maxus has not yet given final specs, but they did say that three variants will be offered: 4×2 MT, 4×2 AT, and 4×4 AT. All we can do for now is speculate on what features the three variants may or may not have when they go on sale early next year.

In Australia, the Maxus T60 earned the full five-star crash test rating due to its structure and safety features, such as ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and six airbags. Other features include a 10-inch touch screen infotainment system LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, passive entry with push-button start, electronic adjustment for the driver’s seat, as well as leather upholstery.

In terms of the pick-up’s drivability, the Maxus T60 does not veer away from the traditional pick-up architecture. It uses a front double wishbone suspension, rear leaf springs, hydraulic power steering, and disc brakes on all four wheels.

Under the hood of the Maxus T60 is a VM Motori 2.8-liter inline-4 turbo diesel engine that produces 150 hp and 360 Nm. Power is sent to the rear or all four wheels via a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Given the popularity of pick-ups in the Philippines, the Maxus T60 may be the vehicle that will catapult the growth of the Maxus brand in the country. Granted, the pick-up segment is loaded with established competitors, but with the right price, features, and of course, excellent quality of customer service, the Maxus T60 may be a formidable competitor to watch out for.